Optical Sensors

Optical sensors use light for detection, imaging, spectral analysis, and environmental sensing. At Fraunhofer IPMS, micro-optical and optoelectronic solutions are developed based on MEMS, CMOS, and OLED technologies to enable compact, high-performance sensing systems.

A key research area is MEMS scanning mirrors for LiDAR and 3D environmental sensing. These devices steer laser beams within compact systems, enabling precise, contactless measurement. Bidirectional OLED microdisplays combine image projection and image capture within a single pixel matrix, opening new possibilities for smart glasses, wearables, industrial assistance systems, and fingerprint sensing. Silicon and organic photodiodes cover both visible and near-infrared (NIR) spectral ranges, while organic photodiodes can be integrated with CMOS readout circuits at wafer level. Additional technologies include precision optical slits, hafnium oxide-based pyroelectric sensors, and OLED/CMOS sensor platforms designed for specialized optical measurement tasks.

Key application areas include automotive, industrial automation, medical technology, quality assurance, and process monitoring. The technologies also support gas and flame detection as well as advanced human–machine interaction. By combining micro-optical components, chip-level integration, and application-oriented demonstrators, Fraunhofer IPMS enables compact optical sensing solutions tailored to real-world requirements. Industrial and research partners benefit from customized optical sensor components, chip-level technologies, and system integration services that accelerate the development of application-specific optical measurement systems and prototypes.